She started her fashionable stationary art shop after being asked by many friends to create unique gift wraps for them. Having a background in fashion proved to her that this was the right way to go.
But Lorena is also interested in the ancient art of Romanian Point Lace making, which she was able to learn from her grandmother when she was still a child. Today, living in Australia Lorena not only makes Romanian Point Lace jewelry but also teaches workshops in this art and has even written a book.
She is determined to be eco-friendly in her work and uses only organic cotton to create her jewelry and acid free paper for her illustrations.
Tell us a bit about your background. How did you learn to make Romanian point lace?
My name is Lorena Balea-Raitz and I am a fashion designer and illustrator. I grew up in Europe and learned Romanian Point Lace making first with my eyes.
My grandmother was always creating Romanian Point Lace and the house was full with precious hand made lace.
I create Romanian Point Lace Jewelry and teach this ancient technique here in Brisbane, Australia.
Can you take us through your creative process? How long does a point lace necklace take to make? What else can you make with this technique?
It is a very long and time-consuming process. It looks overwhelming at the beginning but fun once you understand the technique. It takes at least 3 to 4 days to create one necklace. First, you need to create the basic cord for the necklace then you create the design.
You can do a lot with this technique. Home decor, bookmarks, fashion clothes, toys, jewelry, etc.
You are also an illustrator. How do you combine both arts? Do you draw inspiration from one to the other?
I love to make fashion related illustrations and I also love to combine both the Romanian Point Lace and the illustration work. I do draw inspiration because almost every necklace I design leads to a one-of-a-kind-illustration.
Have you always been creative?
I guess I have been, considering that I always made clothes or something else. I was never happy with what I saw in stores and wanted to have unique designs. I had my first fashion show at the age of 15.
What is the most challenging aspect of your work?
The most challenging aspect of my work is to create original designs and re-invent this ancient technique but keep it alive.
You organize a lot of workshops. Is there much interest in your crochet art in Australia? What kind of people visit your classes?
All kinds of people visit my classes. Yes, there is a lot of interest and so I have written a little book on it as well - it goes along with my workshops.
Where do you see yourself creatively in 5 years?
I see myself creating and building a brand with my designs and illustrations as well as teaching this technique and keeping it alive.
What is your current favorite item by another etsy seller?
It will be difficult for me to pick one etsy seller because there are so many and the designs are wonderful. All are great and every day I see new exciting stuff.
Keep in touch with Lorena:
Website: http://www.balea-raitz.com/
Blog: http://balearaitzart.blogspot.com/
Etsy shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/BaleaRaitzART
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BaleaRaitzFashion
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BaleaRaitzART
Amazing pieces! So beautiful and creative. You are so talented and inspiring.
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